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Highlanders flyhalf Tony Brown could miss Friday's game against the Blues after injuring himself while playing basketball. If he does not recover in time, Marc Ellis will replace him at flyhalf with Jeff Wilson slotting in at fullback.

Some positive news on the injury front is that Rua Tipoki should be available after hurting his ankle against the Brumbies, while Romi Ropati also returns after three weeks on the sidelines.

Meanwhile, Blues flanker Andrew Blowers is also doubtful for the Highlanders clash after injuring his thigh in the 39-18 loss to the Stormers. Troy Flavell, who missed Saturday's match with a cut lip, could replace him at the side of the scrum.

The Blues had frank talks at a team meeting on Monday regarding the loss to the Stormers. They are currently lying in seventh position on the log, five points behind the Highlanders. They should feel pretty confident, however, seeing that no Otago side has won at Eden Park since 1976.